Marking the biggest sales dip in 11 months, US consumer spending cooled off in the first quarter, following the holiday season's strong showing. Year-over-year data, however, shows a healthy uptick of 5.4 percent.

Nordstrom's charitable brand Treasure & Bond has launched its first ever home collection with a line of tabletop decor, bedding and pillows. The home category joins existing apparel, footwear, handbags and accessories.

Alibaba Group Holding will pay about 5.45 billion yuan (625.62 million pounds) for a 15 percent stake in China's Easyhome, a home improvement chain, as the internet giant expands its investments in offline businesses.

​Orijit Sen of the Indian craft clothing brand People Tree has accused Christian Dior of plagiarising one of its textile designs, after it appeared on the cover of this month’s Elle magazine worn by Sonam Kapoor.

UK supermarkets giant Sainsbury’s has just spent £60 million on its latest acquisition and it’s one that will help it learn even more about the customers who are buying its fashion offer in ever-increasing numbers.